As the new Formula E season commences, we delve into the Aerodynamics behind these electric racecars and discover that Formula E has a thing or two to teach its bigger brother; Formula 1.

February 2018

Inside the February edition:

With the FIA banning most Aero development in Formula E, these electric racers have less downforce, resulting in less drag and closer racing. This independency from Aero also allows teams to focus their resources on innovating efficient powertrains, which has attracted the attention of all the Automotive OEM’s; guaranteeing the series’ success. So how can Formula 1 do the same?

In this issue you will also find a full technical analysis of the 2017 Formula 1 World Championship winning Mercedes. We explore the secrets behind the W08 chassis and how the M08 EQ Power+ power unit achieves an astounding 50% thermal efficiency.

Our technology section gives the low down on the 2018 technical changes faced by NASCAR, as the series’ lead R&D engineer speaks out. Also, Racecar’s resident Aerodynamicist, Simon McBeath uses CFD to guide us through the complex flows of GT diffusers while the Aries Bikesports racer gets its final rear wing tweaks. ChassisSim’s Danny Nowlan explains the concepts behind control power and stability index. Plus we discover the fascinating processes behind carbon fibre prepreg manufacture and debate the capabilities of Thermosets vs Thermoplastics.